Robert Mueller, the special counsel appointed to investigate Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, is actively investigating the finances and business dealings of President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, according to multiple U.S. officials familiar with the matter.
Kushner’s [TRDataCustom] attorney, Jamie Gorelick, told the Washington Post “we don’t know what this report refers to.”
The paper previously reported that Kushner’s December meeting with Sergey Gorkov, the chairman of the Russian government controlled Vnesheconombank (VEB) and an associate of President Vladimir Putin, had come under scrutiny by U.S. investigators. Kushner Companies’ trophy tower at 666 Fifth Avenue is in need of something of a bailout so that the developer can turn the property into something with stronger revenue. Both Senate and House Intelligence Committee investigators are reportedly considering whether 666 Fifth Avenue‘s weak financial position made Kushner more vulnerable to Russian interests.
U.S. intelligence officials have also told reporters that in December, Kushner attempted to set up a secret backchannel to Russia with the assistance of Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
These investigations are still in their early stages and it is uncertain whether any charges will ever be brought.
Mueller is a former head of the FBI. In May, the Department of Justice appointed him special counsel to oversee the investigation into possible collusion between Russian officials and Trump campaign associates during the 2016 presidential election. Earlier this week, it was revealed that Mueller is also investigating whether Trump attempted to obstruct justice when he fired FBI director James Comey.
Kushner has given no public comments on these matters, preferring to let attorneys speak for him. “It would be standard practice for the Special Counsel to examine financial records to look for anything related to Russia,” Gorelick told the Washington Post. “Mr. Kushner previously volunteered to share with Congress what he knows about Russia-related matters. He will do the same if he is contacted in connection with any other inquiry.” [WaPo] — Will Parker